Student research projects showcased at Capitol in Topeka

Each year, more than 100 students at Pittsburg State University work in labs, conduct surveys, and test materials as they conduct research alongside faculty to solve real-world problems. 

Of those, dozens of graduate student researchers apply for the chance to showcase their work at the 2026 Capitol Graduate Research Summit in Topeka — an annual event that shines a spotlight on some of the best research projects conducted by students from universities across Kansas. 

This year, five Pitt State students were selected for the honor, and of those, one was chosen by judges from across the state for first place recognition among Pitt State participants. 

Alima Tazhikerim (Communication) presented research titled, “Polarized Coverage: How CNN and Fox News Shape the Gun Control Debate in the U.S.” Her project, done with Professor Alicia Mason, examined how partisan news outlets shape college students’ views on gun control and whether political affiliation influences the types of news stories with which they are most likely to engage. 

“First place recognition was one of the most humbling and exciting moments of my academic journey,” Tazhikerim said. “It is a profound honor to bring this recognition to Pittsburg State University and our Department of Communication.” 

Her study was based on a survey of 288 Pitt State students. One of the project’s central findings was that exposure to opposing viewpoints alone may not be enough to shift opinions, because individuals often interpret information through the lens of their existing beliefs. 

Tazhikerim said the topic has implications well beyond academic research. 

“This research carries urgent implications for campus safety, university administration, and public policy,” she said, “understanding how partisan media consumption contributes to political polarization among college students is essential for educators, administrators, and policymakers.” 

Tazhikerim is scheduled to graduate in December and plans to pursue a Ph.D. in Communication at the Annenberg School for Communication at the University of Pennsylvania. 

Professor Troy Comeau, chair of the Communication Department, described her work as outstanding, timely, and relevant. 

“This recognition is well deserved, and we’re proud to have her representing Pittsburg State,” he said. 

Other Pitt State student representatives presenting research included: 

• • Jaydipkumar Chaudhari (Polymer Chemistry) — “Non-Isocyanate Polyurethane from Renewable Resources: An Environmentally Benign Route to Safer Adhesives.” This research, done with Professor Ram Gupta, explored a new, more sustainable type of polyurethane adhesive made entirely from plant‑based materials such as clove oil and citrus‑derived compounds. The eco-friendly approach eliminates hazardous isocyanates while maintaining strong performance.  

• • Shreyashee Dutta (Psychology) — “Inherited Traits and Neurodiversity: Exploring Autism Within Families.” This research, done with Professor David Hurford, explored whether parents of children with autism share certain behavioral and social traits with their children. About 200 parents took part in the study.  

• • Vishalbhai Rajubhai Gamot (Polymer Chemistry) — “Sustainable and Earth-Abundant Mixed Metal Nickel-Iron-Oxide as a High-Performance Anode for Lithium-Ion Batteries.” This research, done with Professor Ram Gupta, focused on developing a new battery material that could significantly improve the performance of lithium‑ionbatteries used in everyday electronics and electric vehicles.  

• • Yashkumar N. Patel (Polymer Chemistry) — “Sustainable Hybrid Polyurethanes from Vanillin-Derived Spiro-Diol and Silane Diol: Toward Mechanically Robust and Flame-Retardant Coating System.” This research, done with Professor Ram Gupta, focused on the development of a new eco‑friendly protective coating made from renewable materials that could replace petroleum‑based coatings used on wood and metal surfaces. 
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University leaders said the recognition reflects the broader strength of graduate research and mentorship at Pittsburg State. 

“At Pittsburg State, graduate student participation in the Capitol Graduate Research Summit is essential,” said Professor Ram Gupta, who serves as the associate vice president for research and innovation. “It highlights the impact of our students’ research on society while elevating them as compelling ambassadors of innovation, discovery, and real-world solutions on a prominent stage.” 

— Pitt State —